Trump Promises Investigations if Reelected

By Alexandra Ulmer

(Reuters) – Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump has vowed to investigate or prosecute political rivals, election workers, and left-wing Americans if he becomes president again.

Trump claims he was a victim of widespread fraud in the 2020 presidential election, despite courts and members of his own administration rejecting these claims. He has asserted that those who cheat for Democratic rival Kamala Harris in the Nov. 5 election will be investigated.

Statements on Election Day

In an interview on Fox News earlier this month, Trump said that the bigger danger on Election Day was "the enemy from within." He labeled left-wing Americans as "sick people, radical left lunatics," and suggested that the National Guard or military may need to intervene. This has alarmed critics who fear he sees the armed forces as a potential weapon against opponents.

Targets of Investigation

Trump has called for investigations into Vice President Harris, President Joe Biden, former President Barack Obama, and Liz Cheney, a high-profile Republican critic. He characterized Harris as responsible for the "biggest crime story of our time" and called for her impeachment. Trump has also indicated a desire for military tribunals for Cheney and Obama.

Threats to Election Workers

On Oct. 25, Trump threatened various individuals with unprecedented prosecution for potential election cheating. He warned that the legal exposure included lawyers, political operatives, donors, illegal voters, and corrupt election officials.

Trump has been sowing doubt about the election’s legitimacy and urging his supporters to vote in droves to ensure a decisive outcome.

Stance on Protests and Technology

In July, Trump indicated that anyone who desecrated the American flag should face jail time. He has also suggested banning refugee resettlement from areas he considers terrorist-infested.

In the tech realm, Trump has accused Meta and Google of potential election interference and has issued threats toward their CEOs regarding content moderation during elections.

Prosecutorial Investigations

Trump has called for the prosecution and dismissal of attorneys who counter him or investigate his activities. He has especially targeted Jack Smith, the prosecutor investigating his alleged wrongdoing related to the 2020 election and classified documents.

Trump’s rhetoric signals a willingness to pursue extreme measures against those he views as adversaries if he is reelected.